Experience Wanderlust in Gujarat: A Detailed Patan Itinerary Guide!

Patan is one of the most underrated spots in Gujarat. It boasts some of the most ancient temples, heritage sites and rich culture. Yet, many people are not aware of its glorious history. In this article, we’ve specially curated a detailed guide on how to plan a vacation in Patan. Let’s pack our bags and start with our Patan itinerary, shall we?

Day 1: Explore the rich culture and history of Patan

Morning: Rani ki Vav

Begin your Patan adventure with a visit to Rani ki Vav, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 11th-century stepwell was commissioned by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev. There are over 500 intricately carved sculptures and seven levels that go deep underground, Rani ki Vav showcases India’s ancient water management techniques and the grandeur of the Solanki era. A fun fact that many might not know, during the monsoon, the lower level sometimes fills with water making it look like a submerged temple.

Afternoon: Patan Patola Heritage

At a distance of a 10-minute drive from Rani ki Vav is Patan Patola Heritage, a private museum showcasing the legendary Patola silk saree tradition. Here, you’ll witness the creation of the rare double ikat weaving technique. The geometric patterns formed are rich in colour and perfectly symmetrical. Sometimes, a single saree might take around six months to a year, even!

Evening: Brahma Kund

An 8-minute drive away from the Patola Heritage Museum is Brahma Kunda, a serene sunset place perfect to unwind and relax after a long day. This lesser-known stepwell is steeped in mythology and local folklore. Surrounded by carved walls and temple-like structures, it’s a peaceful place to reflect on the day’s explorations. As the sun dips low, the golden light reflecting off the stone creates a magical and cinematic moment.

Day 2: Discover The Ancient Temples and Natural Beauty of Patan

Morning: Sun Temple of Modhera 

Start your day fresh and ready to explore the beauty of Patan. An hour's drive away from Patan is the Sun Temple of Modhera. It was built in 1026 AD by King Bhimdev. Dedicated to Surya (the Sun God), the temple complex is divided into three parts- Surya Kund (stepwell), Sabha Mandap and Guda Mandap (main shrine). Twice a year, the sun perfectly aligns with the idol inside the sanctum. A sight not to miss out on! 

Afternoon: Shree Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple 

If planning a trip to Patan, the Shree Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple should be a part of your itinerary. Just a short 7-minute drive away from the Sun Temple of Modhera is the Shree Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple. This temple is known for its five-faced depiction of Lord Hanuman. It is a perfect spot if you want to take a break from your travels and soak in the spiritual vibes. 

Evening: Return to Patan 

Sum up your travels for the day and return to Patan. Since it's the last day in the city, cherish a wholesome and authentic Gujarati thali. Visit Hotel Asopalav, a popular restaurant in Patan, recommended by locals and frequent travellers. It is known for its exceptionally delicious Gujarati cuisine. If you’re not a huge fan of thalis, then the restaurant also serves an A la carte menu where you’ll find soups, salads, curries and various dishes.  

Things to Do in Patan

Visit the Panchasara Jain Temple

This itinerary would feel incomplete without adding a stop to a temple. Panchasara Jain Temple in Patan, Gujarat, needs to be ticked off your itinerary. Why? This is a beautiful 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Adinatha, the first Tirthankara in Jainism. The name comes from the five sacred vows followed by Jains. It is an architectural masterpiece of the Solanki period, which houses intricate carvings and symmetrical designs representing Jain's spiritual ideals. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and panch-tirth offer a serene environment for reflection and contemplation. It is a perfect blend of history, spirituality and art. So whenever you visit Patan, don’t miss out on this stunning attraction.

A Tour of the Patan City Museum

Situated near the Patan Patola Heritage, the Patan City Museum is one of the most renowned museums in Gujarat. If you want to dive deeper into the history of Patan and want to explore lesser-known places, then Patan City Museum should be on your list. This museum mainly houses a wide range of marble and sandstone sculptures that date back to the ancient medieval periods of Gujarat. Some of these statues represent deities of the Hindu religion and also the kings of Gujarat. These ancient artifacts are on display to give visitors a peek at the glorious heritage Patan holds.

Explore the Tales of History at Sahastralinga Talav

For all the history enthusiasts, this spot should be on your Patan itinerary. Other than the Patola sarees, the world-famous Rani ki vav and the age-old temples dating back to dentures, the Sahastralinga Talav is a must-visit historical site. What was once the capital of the Solanki kings, this talav is more than just a beautiful tank. It is an elaborate water management system consisting of canals, channels, sluice gates, a natural filtration system and other hydraulic structures in brick and stone spread across 7 hectares. Much of the tank is yet to be excavated, but this ancient heritage site will blow your mind. 

Learn About Patan’s Rich Heritage at the Madhav Vav

Madhav Vav, nestled in the historic town of Patan Gujarat, is Bindu Sarovar. This ancient water reservoir is a hidden gem that perfectly blends history, spirituality and natural beauty. Located near the famous Rani ki Vav, this ancient water reservoir is a beautiful spot deeply rooted in Hindu mythology.  According to legend, the reservoir was created by the divine drops (bindus) of water from the Ganga River, making it a truly sacred site. What makes Bindu Sarovar even more special is the other historical structures nearby, making it a perfect stop for anyone touring Patan. Whether you're there for the history, the architecture, or simply to enjoy the tranquil surroundings, Bindu Sarovar offers a beautiful glimpse into Gujarat's rich heritage.

Top Attractions in Patan

Khan Sarovar

If you are looking for a great way to connect with the city’s historical and architectural legacy, Khan Sarovar should be on your Patan itinerary. It is a stunning historical stepwell that showcases ancient Indian water management. Built during the Solanki period, this stepwell serves as a crucial water source for the people of Patan during the drier months. This structure is well-known for its impressive architecture, with steps leading down to a large water reservoir, making it both functional and visually appealing. One can surely say that Khan Sarovar is an excellent example of ancient architecture, featuring intricate carvings. Over time, it has become a symbol of Patan’s rich history and a peaceful spot for visitors to reflect, unwind and soak in the beauty Patan has to offer. 

Rudramal or Rudra Mahalay

Rudra Mal or Rudra Mahalay in Patan, Gujarat, will leave visitors mesmerized by the architectural beauty of this temple. Built during the Solanki period, this site is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a shikhara-style temple structure. The temple complex is known for its stunning stone carvings, minuscule detailing and beautifully designed pillars that depict various divine mythological creatures. The serene ambience of this place is what sets it apart. For those interested in ancient Hindu architecture and religious history, this spot is a must-visit.

Shree Sindhavai Mataji Temple Patan

Shree Sindhavai Mataji Temple in Patan is known as a popular pilgrimage site. The temple is dedicated to Sindhavai, a reverend Hindu goddess. The temple consists of a main shrine a beautiful white marble structure with intricate carvings and designs. The shrine houses an idol of Sindhvai Mata, adorned with garlands and flowers by devotees. The community hall is spacious, where devotees can gather and participate in various religious events and ceremonies. The temple also has facilities for accommodation, including rooms and dormitories, where visitors can stay. The temple is known for its annual fair during the Navratri festival. It is a major cultural event as people from all over the country gather to visit this temple.

 Things to Shop for in Patan

 Patola Silk Sarees

Their iconic Patola Saares truly deserves a mention if we're talking about Patan. The Patola silk saree is a one-of-a-kind creation as it is unique for its pure ikat technique. It is a double-woven ikat silk saree. These saares cost a fortune as it is a rare weave and a time-consuming process of weaving high-quality silk with intricate patterns and designs. They are one of the most famous textile pieces in India. It can take around six months to a year to make these sarees due to the long process of separating each strand before weaving them together. Thus, these sarees are not mass-produced but are made by skilled artisans who have been practising this craft for generations. The cost of this saree can go up to Rs. 2 lakhs or sometimes even more. If you wish to buy a Patola saree but don’t want to splurge, check out Patans Patola Art, a local shop that sells a variety of Patola sarees. 

Bandhani Dupattas

Everyone needs to have a Bandhani dupatta in their wardrobe. Bandhani or locally known as Bandhej, is another art form found in Patan. It is an ancient art form that involves tying small portions of fabric with threads before dyeing, which results in a unique design. The Khatri community of Gujarat and Saurashtra is known for this craft. There have been findings of a Bandhani dupatta in 4000 BC, at the time of the Indus Valley Civilization. A fun fact that many people might not know is that on the walls of the Ajanta Caves, one can find a significant use of Bandhani dots. Ananya Vastram, a local shop in Patan, is a must-visit if one is looking for a Bandhani dupatta. 

Clay Art

Since ancient times, Gujarat has been known for its rich cultural craft and its glorious heritage. Another addition to the list is the clay art found in Patan. It is a hub for art, architecture, and various crafts and clay art is one of them. Tribal communities in Gujarat, like the Bhils and Rathwas, are associated with this age-old tradition. This art includes clay art like terracotta plaques, pots, clay toys and small figurines of animals like elephants and horses. 

Local Delicacies to Try in Patan

Khaman

When one talks about Gujarat, Khaman is the first thing that comes to mind. This spongy and delicious snack is primarily made up from a batter of ground chickpea flour (besan), lemon juice, a variety of spices and a leavening agent like baking soda or Eno. It is said, the roots of similar dishes like Khaman can be traced back to Jain texts as early as the 10th century. Patel Khaman House and Namkin is a must-visit spot if one wants to treat oneself to authentic, soft, light and appetizing Khaman. The price range is from Rs. 200 to Rs. 500.

Farsan 

Gujarat is famous for its namkeens, and one of them is Farsan. Farsan has made its place in everyone’s lives; may it be a topping on Misal Pav or a midnight munching snack, everyone seems to love it. It comes in a variety of crunchy snacks like Fafda, Ganthiya, and Chana Jor Garam. It is also widely used in various Indian cuisines like Marwari and Sindhi. Zeel Khamni Point is a popular joint to buy a variety of farsan from. This quaint joint offers some amazing and mouthwatering Gujarati dishes. If you’re in search of the best Farsan that is flavourful, authentic, and you can binge on, then Zeel Khamni Point should be a part of your itinerary! The approximate cost of a meal for two people here will be between Rs. 200 to Rs. 400

Thepla 

Thepla is not only a staple for Gujaratis but for almost every Indian. What makes Thepla a staple? It has an umami of flavours, it is light on the stomach yet filling, and the cherry on top would be the nutritional benefits. Wheat flour, fenugreek leaves and spices make it a wholesome and healthy dish. It is also a food item that can stay palatable during long course journeys. One can rightly say that it is a representation of Gujarati Cuisine. A trip to Gujarat will be incomplete without a steaming hot plate of Theplas. Honest Restaurant in Patan is known for its high-quality food and fast service. The average cost for two people here is Rs. 350. 

Where To Stay

Modhera Sunrise Resort 

If you want a taste of luxury while experiencing the best of Gujarat’s heritage, look no further. Modhera Sunrise Resort is the answer to your worries. Situated on the banks of the Pushpavati River and right behind the Modheshwar Temple, the place offers the best of hospitality, entertainment and culture. Surrounded by a green grove on all sides, the cozy and homely atmosphere of this resort will elevate your overall experience. The resort offers an array of stay options like bhungas, cottages or tents. To keep the guests entertained, the resort also has amenities like a swimming pool, bonfire nights with performances, a guided walk through a vegetable garden within the premises and much more. The tariff for per night stay starts from Rs. 2,500. 

Hotel Grand Raveta 

The Grand Raveta Hotel is for those who are looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay. The location of this hotel is a distance of 14-minute drive from the Rani ki Vav. The hotel has all the necessary facilities like air conditioning, room service, clean washrooms and decent food. The tariff for per night starts from Rs. 1,500. 

 Apple Residency

A stay that is comfortable and won't break the bank? Well, Apple Residency Hotel is what you need. The accommodation is decent and worth the money you spend. It has a flexible check-in and check-out policy, clean rooms, good service, and the food enhances the overall experience. The charges for per night here are Rs. 1,500 onwards.